I'm pulling my hair out trying to get my PC and PS3 to communicate. I've connected them directly using a CAT5 cable. The PS3 can't find a connection, and the PC goes from "network cable unplugged" to "limited or no connectivity" while the ps3 searches and fails. I have WMP11 open and set to share files with anything and everything. I have windows firewall turned off. What the hell else do I need to do? Please help.

I think the major problem with the PS3 is that it doesn't individually catagorize internet vs. media server. If you hook up a PC and PS3 directly via usb or ethernet, they should be able to trade files even with no internet connection at all.

Also want to add: Sometimes every now and then, when I have both my pc and PS3 connected to the internet via WIFI, the media server will pop up. But it's usually incredibly slow if I try to download files because I steal internet from my neighbor and the connection is super slow(hence me hooking them up directly).

You'll have much better luck getting your own broadband connection and connect to it instead of trying to mooch the neighbor's signal- it's probably not strong enough considering the distance plus he may well have some ports closed that you need open for the PSN.